Buckingham Palace has announced the death of Katharine, Duchess of Kent, at the age of 92.
The Duchess, who was married to Prince Edward, Duke of Kent and cousin to the late Queen Elizabeth II, passed away peacefully on Thursday evening.
In a statement, Buckingham Palace said: “It is with deep sorrow that Buckingham Palace announces the death of Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Kent. Her Royal Highness passed away peacefully last night at Kensington Palace, surrounded by her family.
The King and Queen and all members of the royal family join the Duke of Kent, his children and grandchildren in mourning their loss and remembering fondly the duchess’s lifelong devotion to all the organisations with which she was associated, her passion for music and her empathy for young people.”
As a mark of respect, the Union flag above Buckingham Palace was lowered to half-mast at midday. A formal notice confirming her death will also be posted on the railings outside the royal residence.
The Duchess of Kent had long been admired for her charitable work, particularly in the fields of education, music and youth welfare.
Her passing will be deeply felt both within the royal family and among the many organisations she supported throughout her life.
